At Indiana Dunes State Park and Indiana Dunes National Park, you can experience breathtaking sunsets and bird’s-eye perspectives on the unique and ancient landscapes that comprise the Indiana Dunes.
Mt. Baldy
As the steepest dune in the Indiana Dunes, Mt. Baldy offers an impressive sight along the lakeshore. This 126-foot-tall dune is constantly shifting due to wind and erosion, making it one of the most dynamic landscapes in the park. The Mt. Baldy Summit Trail is only accessible during ranger-led hikes to protect the landscape. You can find times and dates for these guided hikes on the park’s website.
West Beach
West Beach features multiple scenic overlooks that showcase different parts of the dunes. Some platforms provide views of a peaceful inland lake, while others offer sweeping vistas of the ever-changing dune landscape. The most remarkable overlook at West Beach is found at Diana’s Dune, a high point along the Dune Succession Trail. This spot offers one of the best panoramic views of Lake Michigan, and on clear days, visitors can even see the Chicago skyline in the distance!
Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk
For one of the most accessible scenic spots in the Indiana Dunes, the Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk is a must-visit. The paved riverwalk leads visitors to a viewing deck, where they can enjoy uninterrupted views of Lake Michigan and take in the stunning scenery without the need for strenuous hiking. The calm, rolling waves and the distant sight of the Chicago skyline create a relaxing atmosphere, making this an excellent place to watch the sunset or take a stroll.
The 3 Dune Challenge
The 3 Dune Challenge offers some of the most rewarding scenic views in Indiana Dunes State Park. This 1.5-mile trail takes hikers over the three tallest dunes in the park—Mt. Jackson, Mt. Holden, and Mt. Tom—with each peak providing a unique view of the surrounding landscape. From the top of these dunes, visitors can take in Lake Michigan’s vast horizon, the rolling dunes stretching into the distance, and the lush forests that blanket the park.
Tolleston Dunes Overlook
The Tolleston Dunes Overlook is one of the best spots in the Indiana Dunes for viewing wetlands and wildlife. Located along U.S. Highway 12, this small pull-off area has limited parking but offers a peaceful view of the preserved dune and wetland landscape. The Tolleston Dunes represent a shoreline from thousands of years ago, creating a unique mix of rolling hills and marshy areas. This overlook is particularly popular with birdwatchers, as the wetlands attract a variety of migratory birds, including herons, egrets, and even bald eagles.
Some of the best perspectives in the Indiana Dunes come after a climb. Explore more hikes that bring you above the treetops and out to the water. Then book your stay and make your trip real!
